Content

This unit aims to develop in students an understanding of the place of practical activities in school science and strategies the effective use of a wide range of resources in the contemporary science curriculum. The topics to be addressed in this unit include: Productive use of excursions and incursions in science, laboratory management policies and procedures, legal responsibilities of the science teacher; preparation and storage of laboratory chemicals and biological materials; ways of using community science resources including local industry and government agencies; field work in science; using web based resources; strategies for the effective preparation and presentation of teachers' demonstrations; strategies for the effective use of a range of equipment, including learning technologies such as data-logging, computers and graphic calculators: strategies for the effective preparation and management of laboratory activities undertaken by students; formative and summative assessment of practical activities; and research related to the effective use of practical activities in science learning. The unit assumes a basic level of competence in the use of learning technologies and will require the student to engage in regular electronic conferences and other web-based learning activities.

Assessment

Task 1: Teacher Demonstration 25% (1000 words): The presentation and discussion of a teacher demonstration as well as a written summary of the demonstration. Task 2: Research Assignment 35% (2000 words): Research assignment that discusses the benefits and difficulties in undertaking excursions and provide details of a viable excursion experience that is embedded in a particular science curriculum.Task 3: Electronic Portfolio 40% (2000 words): This involves a collection of science teaching resources with a written rationale for their use in a contemporary science classroom.

Unit Fee Information

Student Contribution Rate*

Student Contribution Rate**

Fee rate - Domestic Students

Fee rate - International students

$769

$615

$2452

$2612

* Rate for all CSP students, except for those who commenced Education and Nursing units pre 2010** Rate for CSP students who commenced Education and Nursing units pre 2010Please note: Unit fees listed do not apply to Deakin Prime students.